While not widely recognized on the global stage, the Nepal Men’s Cricket Team has undergone remarkable growth and showcased noteworthy performances in international cricket in recent times. The team has nurtured exceptional talents capable of competing with any global counterpart. This rise has garnered significant support and admiration from a rapidly expanding fan base spanning the globe.
The upcoming 2023 Asia Cup, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, offers a prime opportunity for Nepal to exhibit their cricketing prowess and establish an international reputation. Armed with a rich cricket heritage and a talented pool of players, the Nepal Men’s Cricket Team finds itself under the spotlight as they strive to excel and etch an indelible presence in the Asia Cup.
Leading the charge at the top of the batting order in the Asia Cup 2023 will be Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, both of whom delivered commendable performances during the qualification phase. Kushal Bhurtel, a seasoned opener who made his T20 debut in 2019, has demonstrated his mettle in high-pressure matches, boasting the rare feat of three consecutive half-centuries since his T20 debut. Aasif Sheikh, a wicket-keeping batsman, recently marked his maiden ODI century and is eager to leave an impact against formidable opponents in the tournament.
Guiding the middle order will be Captain Rohit Paudel, who not only holds the record for Nepal’s highest ODI run-scorer but also became the first Nepalese player to surpass 1000 runs in ODI cricket. Paudel will be joined by Gyanendra Malla, Bhim Sharki, and Aarif Sheikh, adding stability to the batting lineup and contributing significantly to the team’s international achievements. They will face the challenge of negotiating with adept bowlers during the middle overs.
Nepal boasts a robust all-rounder contingent featuring the likes of Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Pratis GC, Kishore Mahato, and Lalit Rajbanshi. These all-rounders provide versatility and balance to the squad across all three facets of the game. The young sensation Kushal Malla, who holds the distinction of being the youngest male cricketer to notch a half-century in international play, showcases his adaptability with both bat and ball.
Among the rising talents, Pratis GC is poised to make his mark in the upcoming Asia Cup. A touch of class is brought to the team by Sandeep Lamichhane, a poster boy of Nepal cricket. Lamichhane, celebrated for his exploits in the Indian Premier League, consistently bewilders top-notch batters with his finesse in spin bowling. His inclusion in the squad is paramount to Nepal’s aspirations for success in the Asia Cup.
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Nepal Squad for Asia Cup 2023
- Rohit Paudel (captain)
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Aasif Sheikh (wicketkeeper)
- Bhim Sharki
- Kushal Malla
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Gulshan Jha
- Sompal Kami
- Karan KC
- Aarif Sheikh
- Pratis GC
- Kishore Mahato
- Lalit Rajbanshi